asked the Minister for Transport and Power if there has been an upsurge of interest in firms wishing to avail themselves of grants from his Department to engage consultants to carry out fuel efficiency surveys.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Fuel Efficiency Surveys.
21.
The technical assistance grant scheme, as operated by my Department up to the 1973 oil crisis, provided for grants towards the cost of general fuel efficiency surveys in industry, including certain service industries.
The number of firms availing of the scheme was four in 1974 and two in 1975 to date, compared with one in 1973. The scheme was modified early in 1974 in the light of the oil crisis to provide specifically for boiler efficiency tests. The number of grants paid under this heading was 47 in 1974 and 46 in 1975 to date.
I am satisfied with the level of interest being displayed in the boiler efficiency tests but I would like to see more firms having general consultancy surveys undertaken as there is still considerable scope for savings in many areas of energy consumption in industry.
Surely the Minister will agree that the scheme must be considered to be unsuccessful as there is an apparent lack of interest in availing of it?
Yes, I am disappointed at the amount of interest shown in that scheme. However, I think the amount of interest shown in the boiler efficiency test scheme is rather encouraging, and I shall be endeavouring to promote both schemes vigorously through the Institute for Industrial Research and Standards and the CII during this year.
Is there any way in which the Minister could improve the scheme?
I do not think an improvement in the scheme would necessarily provide more applicants. What is needed is a personal selling of the schemes to various industrialists who are unaware of its benefits.
Would the Minister tell us the purpose of the scheme?
Energy conservation.
To reduce oil imports through conservation.
Yes. This scheme has been there for about 15 years and was extended last year as a result of the energy crisis.
Is it confined to industrial concerns?
No. Certain service industries and hotels as well.
Would local authorities who are centrally heating large numbers of dwellings qualify for any assistance from the Minister's Department?
Not from my Department. They might qualify for the boiler efficiency test but not for the consultancy service. That is confined to industries and hotels.
They would qualify for one section of the scheme?
I am not sure whether they would qualify for the boiler efficiency test. I shall find out and let the Deputy know.